After a hot, busy summer, some of us are longing for a cooler, simpler season… fall. September 22nd is the first day of fall where you can pull out your boots, scarfs, and flannel shirts, and begin stocking your home with all the pumpkin flavored items your heart desires. Even though summer gets all the glory on the Outer Banks, fall is a hidden secret among locals, who claim it to be their favorite time of year. The island feels more at ease with less crowds and more beach to enjoy. Check out our Top 10 List to see why you should plan an OBX getaway this fall.

1. Less Traffic
School is back in session and families are getting back to their yearly routine. The summer travelers have come and gone, making it much easier to get to the beach, your favorite Outer Banks restaurants, and local attractions. Spend less time in the car and more time enjoying all your favorite OBX spots.

2. More Beach & Great WeatherLess traffic, of course, equals more beach for you! Finding a spot to spread out your beach blanket is easier than ever. There is plenty of room to surf fish, paddle board, surf, or just sit and relax. The cooler temperatures in the 70s make it more enjoyable to kick back and enjoy a good book in your beach chair.

3. Better Fishing
Local fishermen don’t want to give away this secret, but fall is the best time to go fishing on the Outer Banks. A variety of fish begin to migrate from west to the east coast in the fall, so there is more fish in the sea for you to reel in. White marlin, sailfish, and tuna are plentiful for the offshore angler. Inshore, pier, and surf fishing are also promising if you’re looking to fill up your cooler with Spanish and king mackerel, bluefish, red drum, cobia, trout, mullet, and puppy drum.

4. Better Surfing
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just enjoy watching from the shore, fall is when the waves get bigger and the surfing is at an all-time high. Windswells, north, south, and east swells and light westerly winds make for great surfing conditions, especially on Hatteras Island. If you’re no Kelly Slater, you can still enjoy watching as the best amateur surfers at the Easterns surf competition at Jennette’s Pier, taking place September 18th – 24th.

5. Better Dining Experience
Were you craving a jerk burger from Tortugas’s Lie this summer, but couldn’t take the wait? Now is your chance to visit your favorite OBX restaurants and grub on your favorite dishes before some places close for the winter. Many restaurants offer discounts and specialty menus during the fall so you can try something new at an even better price.

6. Shorter Lines at Popular OBX Attractions
Leisurely climb the lighthouses and visit the Wright Brother’s Memorial without feeling the rush of the crowd. You can finally take you time to soak in the history and the beauty of these famous local attractions.

7. Sales for the Shopper
Get a jump on your Christmas shopping this fall on the OBX. Many shops prepare to close for the off-season and offer wonderful deals on unique trinkets and gifts. Tanger Outlets is also a don’t miss spot for Black Friday shopping and fall sales.

8. Stunning Sunsets & Scenery
The change in temperature and weather conditions make for stunning sunsets that you just have to see in person. Vibrant colors of purple, orange, red, pink, and blue fill the evening sky and are the perfect way to end the day. Watch the sun set over the sound from the public soundfront piers and gazebos or from the sun decks of your soundfront vacation rental home.

10. Discounted Rates
A getaway to the OBX is incredibly affordable in the fall. Rental rates are heavily discounted in the off-season, which means you can stay in a great location for a fraction of the summer price. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, you have a wide selection of homes to choose from. Our Last Minute Offers page allows you to submit an offer (21 days or less prior to your arrival) for the chance to receive incredible savings on your trip.

The OBX is yours for the taking this fall. Don’t miss the sights, sounds, and events that only happen this time of year. Book your fall getaway on the Outer Banks today!